SPUR RIDE U.S. Army soldiers depart a CH-47 Chinook helicopter during winter Spur Ride on Forward Operating Base Sharana, Paktika province, Afghanistan, Dec. 8, 2011. The soldiers are assigned to 1st Battallion, 227th Aviation Regiment. The Spur Ride is a tradition dating back to the beginning of the U.S. Cavalry, where troopers prove their tactical and technical skills, leadership, and teamwork over several days to earn the right to wear silver cavalry spurs. SHARE: Download: Full Size (0.06 MB) Credit: VIRIN: 748370-J-BJV03-588.jpg Photo Gallery